good friend," said Ned, placing his hand upon the bowed
head of the giant. "You are certainly grateful for what I have done for
you, which is more than can be said of many mortals. But had I not had
the magic ring and the assistance of my little companion, the bluebird,
you would still be the tree you were. Let us, therefore, the three of
us, pledge allegiance to one another and set out upon our journey of
adventure."

As he finished speaking the giant arose and carefully placing Ned upon
his shoulder, started off at a rapid stride.

The little bluebird flew ahead, and in a short time the three comrades
emerged from the forest.

In the distance could be seen the turrets of a stately castle, which
looked down from a high point of land upon a beautiful river that wound
in and out like a silver ribbon through the meadow.

"Who lives in yonder castle?" asked Ned, unconsciously adopting the
style of language of Gnomeland.

"I know not," answered the giant, "but with a few more steps we will be
able to inquire at the postern gates."

It was indeed a stately castle, and upon reaching the drawbridge Ned was
surprised to find that it was not lowered for them to cross over,
although they waited for some time.

"I think I'll blow upon my policeman's whistle," said Ned, hunting
through his pockets. "I certainly had it when I left home."

"Blow hard," advised the giant as Ned brought it forth, "blow hard, that
those within may think us worthy of admittance."

Upon which Ned let out a blast that would do justice to any Knight of
the Round Table. He was himself surprised at the volume of sound, but
was too much interested in what was about to happen to realize that the
touch of his magic ring had made it possible for the small nickel-plated
whistle to create such a sound.

Presently the drawbridge began slowly to descend, and when the creaking
chains ceased their noise, our three comrades crossed over to the castle
gates. These were thrown wide open, and just as the giant placed Ned
upon his feet in front of the castle doors, they opened, disclosing a
beautiful princess on the threshold.

"Welcome, Ned, to you and your two friends."

Whereupon the giant bowed very low, and the little bluebird flew over
and nestled on her shoulder.

Ned was too delighted to speak for a moment, for up to this time his
experiences had been most trying, but here at last it seemed that
fortune smiled upon him.

So he and the giant followe